Where To Skate, Ski And Sled In And Around Chicago

Feeling inspired by the excitement of the Winter Games? You don’t have to travel far to get in on the seasonal spirit. Around Chicago, you’ll find places where families can lace up skates, enjoy indoor winter fun, or plan easy day trips to nearby skiing, tubing or sledding spots. Whether you’re looking to stay close to home or head out for a weekend adventure, these ideas can help you make the most of the season. Just be sure to double-check hours, weather conditions and reservation details before heading out.

⛸️ Ice Skating & Indoor Winter Fun

Maggie Daley Park Ice Skating Ribbon

Address: 337 E Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60601

Phone: (312) 742‑1168

Details: Iconic outdoor ice skating ribbon in the heart of downtown Chicago offering scenic city views while you skate through twisting loops and curves. It’s a festive winter staple for families and visitors alike, typically open from late fall through winter (when weather allows).

McCormick Tribune Ice Rink

Address: 11 Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60602

Phone: (312) 744‑4590

Details: Located within the expansive Millennium Park, this ice skating rink near the Bean draws locals and tourists for seasonal skating with a picturesque backdrop (weather permitting).

🎿 Skiing, Snowboarding & Tubing — Day Trips

Four Lakes Alpine Snowsports

Address: 5750 Lakeside Dr, Lisle, IL 60532

Phone: (630) 964‑2550

Details: A popular ski hill offering downhill skiing and snowboarding lessons for all skill levels. It’s one of the closest slope options to Chicago and perfect for a winter day trip about a 40‑45 minute drive from the city center.

Villa Olivia Ski & Snowboard Area

Address: 1401 W Lake St, Bartlett, IL 60103

Phone: (630) 540‑6424

Details: A local favorite for skiing, snowboarding, and dedicated snow tubing lanes. With multiple runs and tubing options, it’s a classic winter destination roughly a 50‑60 minute drive from Chicago. You can't beat that.

☃️ Outdoor Play & Sledding Spots

When snow hits and conditions are safe, city parks and natural spaces around Chicago become fun spots for sledding and winter play. Always check park signage or local updates to confirm snow and safety conditions before heading out.

Chicago‑area spots to consider:

Hills at Warren Park, Horner Park, and sledding areas in other Chicago Park District parks often host sledders after adequate snowfall. These parks and hills are generally 10–25 minutes from downtown Chicago and offer easy access for quick winter outings when snow accumulates. (Source: Chicago Park District).

Further outdoors:

Starved Rock State Park — This large nature area in Utica offers scenic winter hiking, sledding spots, and icy waterfalls when conditions allow, and it’s about a 1 hour 45 minute to 2 hour drive from Chicago.

Bundle up, stay safe and have fun wherever winter takes you!

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